In celebration of the 50th anniversary of both the Ford F-series trucks and NASCAR racing, Ford became the official truck of NASCAR beginning this year. As part of the sponsorship, Ford is producing a limited number of '98-model NASCAR special-edition F-150s.

Production started in mid-May, and the limited-edition models arrived in dealerships over the summer. Ford will build 3,000 units for 1998. The black pickup comes with 16-inch 10 spoke black aluminum rims, a host of NASCAR-based graphics, mesh grille insert, dual stainless-steel exhaust tips & front air dam from Roush, Goodyear P255/70R16 Wrangler AP tires with outline yellow lettering, a lower suspension, and a special handling package.

Also featured will be a 4.6 Triton V8 with 220 horsepower, 5 speed manual transmission, and 3.73 axle ratio. Interior features include 40/60 split cloth bench seat with center armrest storage, NASCAR logo embroidered on headrests with matching floor mats, and tachometer.

Options include 4 speed automatic overdrive transmission and a unique tonneau cover (available on 20% of units only).

By agreeing to produce special-edition F-150s, Ford is giving NASCAR fans a chance to participate in the official truck program. In addition to producing the special-edition F-150s, Ford is also producing special F-series 50th anniversary apparel and merchandise.

As part of the official vehicle program, Ford trucks will be used as NASCAR inspection and support vehicles and as the official truck for all 12 NASCAR racing divisions, including Winston Cup.

Ford Delivers Special Edition NASCAR F-150

Dearborn, MI, Sept. 3, 1998 — The celebration of two distinctly American traditions continued recently when Jim France, executive vice-president of NASCAR, acquired his newly purchased Special Edition NASCAR F-150 pickup truck. France, who placed the first official order for the vehicle during Speedweeks last February, took possession of the special edition vehicle in Daytona Beach from Gary Yeomans Ford, just down the street from Daytona International Speedway.

Built at the Norfolk Assembly Plant in Norfolk, Va., the special jet-black V8-powered style-side pickup was first unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1998, celebrating F-Series' selection as the "Official Truck of NASCAR." Both the F-Series and NASCAR are celebrating their 50th anniversaries in 1998.